Whether you're engaging in a team workout, participating in a local competition, collaborating with colleagues, or nurturing a relationship, three essential traits will elevate your performance as a team member: humility, hunger, and people smarts.

1. Humility

Being humble means acknowledging that you always have room for improvement and that you don’t have all the answers. It involves recognizing your strengths and understanding where you can contribute to the team’s success. Humility also requires you to accept feedback gracefully and act on it. Simply listening to feedback isn’t enough; true humility is demonstrated by making changes based on that feedback.

Humility is about checking your ego at the door and focusing on the collective goal. It’s essential to balance your contributions without overshadowing others or withdrawing entirely. Everyone appreciates a humble teammate who is open to growth and willing to collaborate effectively.

2. Hunger

Hunger is all about the drive to work hard and improve. A hungry teammate is eager to participate, embraces challenges, and is dedicated to putting in the effort. This trait doesn’t mean pushing for personal bests constantly, but rather having a consistent desire to get better.

In team workouts or any collaborative setting, having someone who is motivated and enthusiastic can make a significant difference. It’s not about being the most skilled or the strongest; it’s about showing up with a positive attitude and a willingness to contribute to the team’s goals. A hungry teammate motivates and inspires others by their example.

3. People Smarts

Being people smart means understanding how to communicate and interact with others effectively. It’s about knowing how to uplift and motivate your teammates in a way that resonates with them. Different people respond to different styles of encouragement and coaching. Some thrive on public cheers, while others prefer quieter, more personal affirmations.

A people-smart teammate can adapt their approach to suit the needs of each individual. They recognize that one size doesn’t fit all when it comes to motivation and support. By being attuned to the preferences and needs of your teammates, you can foster a more cohesive and supportive team environment.

Putting It All Together

To be the ideal team player, you need a balance of all three traits: humility, hunger, and people smarts. Everyone has areas where they can improve, and it’s important to be intentional about developing these traits. Seek feedback, ask for advice, and continuously strive to be better.

Consider the impact you have on those around you. Are you a positive influence, or do you drain energy from the team? Reflect on your past collaborations and think about how your teammates might perceive you. Aim to be a teammate who others enjoy working with and who helps them succeed.

Final Thoughts

These principles are not new concepts but are beautifully articulated in Patrick Lencioni’s book, "The Ideal Team Player." I highly recommend this read, especially if you’re in a leadership position or frequently engage in team activities. Whether you’re involved in sports, work projects, or personal relationships, embracing these traits will make you a better team player.

If you found this discussion helpful, please like, subscribe, and share this podcast with others. Our mission at Equity is to create a world with more happy, healthy people, and we appreciate your support in spreading the word. Thank you for tuning in, and cheers to becoming a better teammate!